BC-NH--New Hampshire News Digest, NH

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WHALE-DETECTING ROBOTS

BOSTON — The Outer Fall area in the central Gulf of Maine is believed to be a mating ground for the endangered North Atlantic right whale, but it's not always hospitable to humans. On a recent trip, endless, steep swells jostled the research boat Endeavor, while gusts transformed the steady sleet into eye-stinging projectiles. The miserable conditions, though, were exactly what whale-detecting robots being tested on the voyage were built to beat.

LEGO COMPETITION

AMES, Iowa — Helping senior citizens is the theme this weekend at an annual competition in Iowa featuring young students building with Legos. This year's Iowa FIRST LEGO League Championship challenges teams of 9- to 14-year-olds to think about how to help senior citizens remain independent and engaged. The league was created by FIRST, a New Hampshire-based nonprofit organization, and the LEGO Group, the toy manufacturer based in Denmark.

ALSO GETTING ATTENTION

— DAY OF SERVICE — Volunteers across New Hampshire will be taking part in the National Day of Service ahead of President Barack Obama's second inauguration.

—CURIOUS GEORGE FESTIVAL — A winter family festival featuring Curious George on the slopes is being held at the Waterville Valley Ski Resort.